New Catholic University plans to create next generation of country’s leaders

A new Catholic university is planning to open its doors in San Diego in the fall of 2005. The educational institution, simply called New Catholic University (NCU), will offer a hands-on curriculum, unique for its emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership.

The university, which filed for state approval this month and has supporters praying for its success, will offer degree programs in technology, business and mass media communications.

In all academic disciplines, NCU hopes to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and encourage leadership and innovation, guided by the spiritual, moral and social teachings of Jesus Christ.

The university’s Senior Business Plan, a two-year business planning and implementation exercise, will require all students, regardless of major, to develop a viable business enterprise before graduation. Faculty will serve as mentors, sharing their personal experience and offering their unique guidance.

The university’s ultimate goal, NCU president Derry Connolly said, is for at least 50 percent of each graduating class to continue with their business plans after graduation.

According to NCU co-founder and dean of technology Ed Snow, the Senior Business Plan will be “the highlight of the student’s academic experience and a defining hallmark of the college.”

Co-founder Wes Fach predicts that NCU will quickly become the “Catholic university of choice.” He expects the university to attract a distinguished faculty, composed of business-savvy entrepreneurs with years of industry experience.

NCU was founded in 2003 by a group of lay Catholics, including three North County businessmen, an attorney and an academic. The university will hold an inaugural gala for supporters and volunteers Sept. 25. The black-tie optional event will be held at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine. Connolly hopes to attract at least 500 supporters to the gala, which will lay the groundwork for the university’s opening.